twofour54 Freezone | Abu Dhabi’s Premier Hub for Media, Content Creation & Creative Industries

In the heart of Abu Dhabi, at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, lies twofour54, a dynamic freezone meticulously designed to empower content creators, media professionals, and creative entrepreneurs. As the UAE’s flagship media and entertainment zone, twofour54 is more than just a business location; it’s a thriving ecosystem where ideas come to life, global productions are realized, and creative talent flourishes. For anyone considering a career or business in media, film, gaming, or digital content in the Middle East, understanding twofour54 is essential.

What is twofour54 Freezone?

twofour54 is a government-backed media freezone launched in 2008, named after Abu Dhabi’s geographical coordinates (24°N, 54°E). It operates under the Abu Dhabi Media Zone Authority and is part of the ADNEC Group. Its mission is to position Abu Dhabi as a regional and global leader in media, content creation, and entertainment by providing an environment that attracts both local and international talent.

The freezone is strategically located on Yas Island, a short drive from downtown Abu Dhabi and less than an hour from Dubai. This prime location offers unparalleled access to regional and global markets, making it an ideal base for companies and freelancers targeting audiences across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.

Who is twofour54 for?

twofour54 is purpose-built for:

• Content creators (writers, filmmakers, animators, podcasters, and digital influencers)
• Media companies (broadcast, print, digital, and publishing)
• Game developers and e-sports professionals
• Marketing, PR, and advertising agencies
• Startups and entrepreneurs in creative industries
• Freelancers and independent professionals

Whether you’re an established global player or a first-time freelancer, twofour54 offers tailored support, infrastructure, and opportunities to help you succeed.

Key Benefits of Setting Up in twofour54

1. 100% Foreign Ownership and Tax-Free Environment

Businesses and freelancers in twofour54 enjoy 100% foreign ownership, with no need for a local sponsor. The freezone offers a zero-tax environment, no corporate or personal income tax, making it one of the most attractive locations for creative businesses in the region.

2. Streamlined Business Setup

Setting up in twofour54 is efficient and straightforward. The process typically takes 1–2 weeks and involves minimal paperwork. New businesses benefit from:

• No minimum capital requirements
• No security deposit per employee visa
• Waived license and registration fees for the first two years (AED 15,000 license fee and AED 3,500 registration fee)
• Freelancers can secure a 12-month sole proprietor license for AED 4,500, or a 6-month license for AED 2,250, with the setup process taking as little as 10 days

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities

twofour54 is home to world-class production infrastructure, including:

• A 300,000 sqm backlot for large-scale productions
• Multiple sound stages and broadcast studios
• Post-production suites and portable podcast studios
• Flexible office spaces, co-working hubs, and private meeting rooms

Major Hollywood blockbusters such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Mission: Impossible – Fallout, and Fast & Furious 7 have been filmed here, a testament to the zone’s technical capabilities and international reputation.

4. Financial Incentives and Production Support

To attract and support content creators, twofour54 offers a 30% cashback rebate on eligible production expenses. This includes costs related to filming, post-production, accommodation, and services sourced from Abu Dhabi. The zone’s ibtikar creative lab provides grant funding (from $1,000 to $50,000) for innovative projects, supporting both emerging and established talent.

5. Professional Development and Training

The in-house Tadreeb Academy delivers over 200 bilingual vocational courses in partnership with global media organizations such as the BBC and Thomson Reuters. Training covers television, journalism, digital media, animation, gaming, and more. Bespoke training programs are available, enabling creators to upskill and adapt to industry trends.

6. Vibrant Community and Networking

twofour54 is more than just a workspace; it’s a collaborative community of over 700 media companies and 900 freelancers. The Community Hub, launched in 2022, offers co-creation spaces, screening rooms, and networking lounges. Regular events, workshops, and partner networking sessions foster collaboration and business growth.

The online community platform connects creatives, allowing them to showcase portfolios, find collaborators, and access new opportunities. This ecosystem is designed to help first-time creators integrate quickly, learn from industry veterans, and build lasting professional relationships.

7. Comprehensive Business Support

From visa processing and accommodation to government relations and marketing, twofour54’s tawasol service handles the administrative side of business, letting creators focus on their craft. The Briefing Room online service matches clients with media agencies and service providers, opening up new project opportunities for freelancers and companies alike.

How twofour54 Supports First-Time Media Creators

For newcomers to the media industry, twofour54 provides a soft landing and ongoing support:

• Fee waivers and financial incentives reduce the cost of starting out.
• No minimum capital requirements make it accessible to those with limited resources.
• Training and mentorship through Tadreeb and the Community Hub help build essential skills.
• Access to world-class facilities ensures even small teams can produce high-quality content.
• Networking events and online platforms connect first-timers with potential collaborators, clients, and mentors.
• Ibtikar Creative Lab and youth initiatives offer funding and development opportunities for innovative ideas and young talent.
• Freelancer support includes a dedicated relations team, access to a pool of experienced professionals, and streamlined licensing.

Success Stories and Industry Impact

Since its inception, twofour54 has played a pivotal role in developing Abu Dhabi’s media landscape. The zone has facilitated over 2,300 major productions and created more than 2,200 jobs in the creative sector. Its community includes global names like CNN, Sky News Arabia, and Cartoon Network Studios, as well as hundreds of regional startups and independent creators.

The upcoming twofour54 Studios, spanning over 400,000 sqm and featuring 11 soundstages and cutting-edge virtual production technology, will further cement Abu Dhabi’s status as a world-class content creation hub.

Why Choose twofour54?

For anyone looking to launch or grow a media business in the Middle East, twofour54 offers an unmatched combination of strategic location, business-friendly policies, financial incentives, and a thriving creative community. Its commitment to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and supporting every stage of the creative journey makes it the go-to destination for content creators and media professionals.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, podcaster, game developer, or digital entrepreneur, twofour54 provides the tools, resources, and support you need to turn your ideas into reality. Join a community where creativity meets opportunity, and be part of Abu Dhabi’s vision for the future of media and entertainment.